American Piano Classics

Erich Kunzel's "American Piano Classics" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of American piano music, released on January 26, 1993, under the Telarc label. This album spans a little over an hour, offering a diverse collection of pieces that showcase the brilliance of the piano both as a solo instrument and in concert with an orchestra.

The album opens with a majestic performance of a Concerto for Piano & Orchestra in C Major, showcasing Kunzel's mastery of classical forms. The three-movement concerto is followed by the Second Rhapsody for Piano & Orchestra, also known as "Rhapsody in Rivets," a piece that highlights the dynamic interplay between the piano and the orchestra. Kunzel's arrangements of popular ragtime pieces like "12th Street Rag," "The Entertainer," "Solace," and "Maple Leaf Rag" bring a lively and nostalgic energy to the album, demonstrating his skill in blending classical technique with American vernacular music.

The album also features the world premiere recording of "Interplay," an American Concertette for Piano & Orchestra, composed by Kunzel himself. This four-movement work is a testament to Kunzel's compositional prowess, offering a fresh and engaging addition to the repertoire. The "Grande tarantelle, Op. 67" rounds out the collection, providing a virtuosic finale to this impressive anthology.

Erich Kunzel's "American Piano Classics" is a celebration of the piano's versatility and the enduring appeal of American music. Whether you're a fan of classical concertos, ragtime, or orchestral showpieces, this album offers something to delight and inspire.